Security and tracking system

ABSTRACT

A security and tracking apparatus includes at least a first signaling unit and a second signaling unit, wherein the apparatus is adapted for transmitting the location of each signaling unit when the first and second signaling units are separated by more than a preselected distance. A method to locate a person, animal, or object, includes providing in contact with or at least in close proximity to the person, the animal, or the object, at least a first signaling unit and a second signaling unit, wherein each respective signaling unit is adapted for identifying the location of the signaling units and for transmitting the location of the signaling units when the first and second signaling units are separated more than a preselected distance; and activating the signaling units to transmit the location of the signaling units.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present application is a continuation-in-part of application U.S.Ser. No. 10/348,481, filed Jan. 20, 2003, which is acontinuation-in-part of U.S. Ser. No. 09/538,193, filed Mar. 30, 2000,now U.S. Pat. No. 6,510,380, which claims priority under 35 USC 119(e)from provisional patent application 60/127,028, filed Mar. 31, 1999, allof which are incorporated herein by reference as if fully written outbelow.

BACKGROUND

There is a recognized need for improved personal security and emergencyresponse capability. In situations where an individual is injured, lost,or abducted, immediate notification of an emergency situation to a locallaw enforcement or emergency response organization is required tomaintain the safety of the individual and to avoid tragic circumstances.

Today's technology provides automatic identification of caller locationsin emergency situations via wire line telephone companies. With thistechnology, a caller dials a 911 telephone number, and a computeraccesses the caller's number in a street directory. This technologycurrently falls short in the case of wireless communications and insituations where there is no phone available. The importance ofemergency response is demonstrated by the FCC mandate, in two phases, ofWireless 911 for the identification of a relevant public safetyanswering point. This mandate still falls short of necessary safetyrequirements in situations of abduction or kidnapping, physical ormental incapacitation, and other emergency situations remote fromavailable wireless communications. These situations require a securityand tracking apparatus that is not limited in range and is able toautomatically identify the location of an individual in an emergencysituation.

The prior art describes a variety of alarms and tracking systems, all ofwhich suffer from at least two fundamental deficiencies. These systemsare exemplified by U.S. Pat. No. 5,731,785, which describes a singlesignaling unit carried by an individual, object, or vehicle. If thesignaling unit is separated from the individual, object, or vehicle,tracking of the individual, object, or vehicle is no longer possible andthe system fails. Moreover, these systems fail to address thecircumstances of individuals who are helpless in an emergency situationsuch as abduction or kidnapping, or physical or mental incapacitation.

SUMMARY

There is provided, without geographic constraints, a security andtracking apparatus with overt and covert signaling units incommunicating proximity on a person, an animal, or a material asset,with a fully automated system to rapidly and reliably indicate locationon demand and in certain embodiments, automatically upon removal of onesignaling unit.

A security and tracking apparatus is provided, comprising a firstsignaling unit having means for identifying the location of saidsignaling unit, and a second signaling unit in communicating proximitywith the first signaling unit, the second signaling unit having meansfor identifying the location of said second signaling unit.

In one embodiment, a security and tracking system is provided comprisinga first signaling unit having means for identifying the location of saidsignaling unit, a second signaling unit in communicating proximity withthe first signaling unit, the second signaling unit having means foridentifying the location of said second signaling unit, and a monitoringstation capable of receiving information identifying the location of thesignaling units.

In another embodiment, a method is provided to locate a person, animal,or object, comprising providing in contact with the person, animal, orobject, at least two signaling units in communicating proximity, eachsaid signaling unit having means for identifying the location of saidsignaling unit, and activating said means to identify the location.

In certain embodiments a security and tracking apparatus is providedcomprising at least a first signaling unit and a second signaling unit,wherein each of the at least first signaling unit and the secondsignaling unit are adapted to operate in a non-alarm mode within aproximity of a preselected distance to each other respective signalingunit and the apparatus is adapted for identifying the location of eachrespective signaling unit and for transmitting the location of eachrespective signaling unit when the first and second signaling units areseparated by more than the preselected distance.

In certain embodiments, a security and tracking system is providedcomprising

at least a first signaling unit and a second signaling unit, whereineach of the at least first signaling unit and the second signaling unitare adapted to operate in a non-alarm mode within a proximity of apreselected distance to each other respective signaling unit and eachrespective signaling unit is adapted for identifying the location ofsaid respective signaling unit and for transmitting the location of saidrespective signaling unit when the first and second signaling units areseparated by more than the preselected distance; and

a monitoring station capable of receiving information identifying thelocation of said signaling units.

In certain embodiments, a method to locate a person, an animal, or anobject, is provided comprising:

(a) providing in contact with or at least in close proximity to theperson, the animal, or the object, at least a first signaling unit and asecond signaling unit, wherein each respective said signaling unit isadapted for identifying the location of said respective signaling unitand for transmitting the location of said respective signaling unit whenthe first and second signaling units are separated more than apreselected distance; and

(b) activating the signaling units to transmit the location of thesignaling units.

In certain embodiments, a method of locating a person, an animal or anobject is provided comprising:

a) providing an apparatus adapted to be in contact with or at least inclose proximity to the person, the animal or the object, the apparatuscomprising at least a first signaling unit and a second signaling unit,wherein each said respective signaling unit is adapted for identifyingthe location of said respective signaling unit and for transmitting thelocation of said respective signaling unit when the first and secondsignaling units are separated by more than a preselected distance;

b) communicating between each signaling unit to determine whether saidsignaling units are separated by more than the preselected distance; and

c) upon determining that said signaling units are separated by more thanthe preselected distance, transmitting the location of the signalingunits to a monitoring station, optionally activating said signaling unitthat may be in a passive mode to transmit its location to the monitoringstation.

In certain embodiments, a method of locating a person, an animal or anobject is provided comprising:

a) providing an apparatus adapted to be in contact with or at least inclose proximity to the person, the animal or the object, the apparatuscomprising at least a first signaling unit and a second signaling unitin proximity with the first signaling unit, each said signaling unitadapted for identifying the location of said signaling unit and fortransmitting the location of said signaling unit;

b) transmitting the location of each of the signaling units to amonitoring station;

c) calculating whether said signaling units are separated by more than apreselected distance; and

d) upon calculating that said signaling units are separated by more thanthe preselected distance, initiating at least frequent or continuoustransmission of location from each signaling unit, optionally activatingsaid signaling unit that may be in a passive mode to transmit itslocation to the monitoring station.

In certain embodiments, a security and tracking apparatus for a person,an animal or an object is provided comprising at least a first signalingunit and a second signaling unit adapted to be hidden in contact with orin close proximity to the person, the animal or the object, wherein eachrespective said signaling unit is adapted for identifying the locationof said respective signaling unit and for transmitting the location ofsaid respective signaling unit when the first and second signaling unitsare separated by more than a preselected distance.

In various embodiments, each said signaling unit is adapted to transmitthe location of said signaling unit to a monitoring station under atleast one of the following conditions:

a) automatically when the first and second signaling units are separatedby more than a preselected distance,

b) upon demand from the monitoring station,

c) upon demand from the person,

d) upon loss or absence of communication from the other signaling unit,or

e) upon preselected intervals;

wherein the monitoring station optionally comprises a cellular phone, apager, a PDA or Pocket PC™, a computer, or a combination thereof.

In one embodiment, at least one signaling unit additionally comprises amonitoring station adapted to generate a signal to notify the person ofthe other signaling unit being separated by more than a preselecteddistance.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a schematic of a security and tracking system in accordancewith certain embodiments.

FIG. 2 is a schematic representation of a security and tracking systemin accordance with certain embodiments.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

This invention is directed to a security and tracking system andapparatus, and a method used to identify the location of an individualsuch as in an emergency situation, the location of a missing animal, orthe location of a missing material asset.

Referring to FIG. 1, a security and tracking system is providedcomprising a first signaling unit 10 having means for identifying thelocation of said signaling unit; and a second signaling unit 20 incommunicating proximity with the first signaling unit, said secondsignaling unit having means for identifying the location of said secondsignaling unit.

In one embodiment, the security and tracking system includes means fortransmitting the location of each signaling unit automatically when thesignaling units are separated more than a preselected distance. Toprovide the greatest possible degree of security, it is desirable forthe system to signal immediately and automatically in the case of anemergency situation. Examples of such situations include the removal ofone of the associated signaling units from an individual in a kidnappingor abduction situation, theft of a material asset containing a signalingunit, and the like.

In another embodiment, the security and tracking system includes meansfor receiving an initiating signal for activating the transmission ofinformation identifying the location of the signaling units. Thisinitiating signal may originate from a monitoring station 30 or otherremote location. The security and tracking apparatus, therefore, allowsa parent or guardian to determine the location of an individual in theircare if they discover that the individual is missing or may be in anemergency situation. Likewise, the owner of a pet or material asset maydetermine the location of the animal or material asset in the case oftheft or loss. The transmission of information identifying the locationof the signaling units may also be initiated by one of the signalingunits, which is vital in a medical emergency or abduction situation, orby an independent signaling unit.

The signaling units have numerous capabilities and options, includingcapabilities for analog or digital signal processing, transmitting, andreceiving. Components of the signaling units may include, but are notlimited to, a power source, an antenna, a receiver, a transmitter, amicroprocessor, an electronic switch, a sensor, a signal generator, atimer circuit, and an optional microphone and video camera. Thepreferred power source is a battery, but power may also be supplied byother means, for example, by mechanical motion or a battery charger,solar cell, fuel cell, or piezoelectric device. The signaling units maycontain a global positioning satellite (GPS) system antenna, and mayalso contain additional types of antennas, for example, a cellulartelephone antenna, radio antenna, wireless antenna, etc., depending onhow information and data is desired to be exchanged with the GlobalPositioning System, the monitoring station, etc. In certain embodiments,a signaling unit may comprise a multiple-in multiple-out (MIMO) antennaarray, and in some embodiments a signaling unit may comprise an antennaadapted to directionally lock in on a signal or target for improvedperformance and efficiency.

The signaling units may receive information via a GPS receiverprocessor, cellular telephone receiver, radio receiver, wirelessreceiver, and the like. A microprocessor may be used to match and verifya code that uniquely identifies each signaling unit. Electronicswitches, sensors, and timing circuits may be used for manual signals orto determine emergency situations for signaling, such as the absence ofa periodic signal from a first signaling unit to a second signalingunit, or a calculation that the units are separated by more than apreselected distance. The periodic signal may utilize radio waves,infrared technology, wireless technology, ultrasonic technology, mobiledocument application language (Modal) technology, software at themonitoring station, or any other known means. A manual switch ispreferably configured to prevent accidental activation, for example, aninternal switch or button that may be activated after opening asignaling unit, but which cannot be activated by accidental bumping. Amanual switch may also comprise at least two buttons to be activatedsimultaneously to prevent accidental activation. Signal generators maybe any type of transmitter that can send a periodic signal to anothersignaling unit or an emergency signal to a monitoring station.

In one embodiment, the means for identifying the location of thesignaling units utilizes at least one of the group consisting of theglobal positioning satellite (GPS) system, low earth orbit satellites,geostationary satellites, other types of satellites, a wireless network,a mesh network, and a cellular network. Examples of low earth orbitsatellites include, but are not limited to, the type specified forMotorola's Iridium system. Cellular networks continue to proliferate andthe coverage of such networks also continues to increase, but somelocations remain out of range of existing cellular networks. Completecoverage of all possible locations is desired, with use of more than onesystem preferred for purposes of redundancy and reliability as well asincreased accuracy. In certain embodiments, it is preferred for themeans for identifying the geographical location of the signaling unitsto utilize the global positioning satellite (GPS) system. The GPS systemmay be used together with cellular or wireless systems for increasedpositioning accuracy.

The global positioning satellite (GPS) system is a space-basedpositioning, velocity, and time system that has three major segments:(1) space, (2) control, and (3) user. The GPS space segment is composedof 24 satellites in six orbital planes. The satellites operate incircular 20,200 km orbits at an inclination angle of 55 degrees with a12-hour period. The spacing of satellites in orbit is arranged so that aminimum of five satellites are in view to users worldwide. Eachsatellite transmits on two band frequencies, 1575.42 MHz and 1227.6 MHz.The GPS control segment has five monitor stations which use a GPSreceiver to passively track all satellites in view and thus accumulateranging data from the satellite signals. The information from themonitor stations is processed at a master control station to determinesatellite orbits and to update the navigation message of each satellite.This updated information is transmitted to the satellites via groundantennas, which are also used for transmitting and receiving satellitecontrol information. The GPS user segment consists of antennas andreceiver processors that provide positioning, velocity, and precisetiming to users.

The GPS concept is predicated upon accurate and continuous knowledge ofthe spatial position of each satellite in the system with respect totime and distance from a transmitting satellite to the user. Eachsatellite transmits unique data which is periodically updated by amaster control station based upon information obtained from five widelydispersed monitor stations. Each satellite continuously transmits acomposite spread spectrum signal at 1227.6 and 1575.42 MHz. The GPSreceiver makes time-of-arrival measurements of the satellite signals toobtain the distance between the user and the satellites. These distancecalculations, together with range rate information, are combined toyield system time and the three dimensional position and velocity of theuser with respect to the satellite system. A time coordination factorthen relates the satellite system to Earth coordinates. The GPS system,therefore, is a space based positioning system that provides threedimensional position, velocity and time information to suitably equippedusers anywhere on or near the surface of the Earth. The GPS systemprovides continuous worldwide three-dimensional coverage, and systemcapacity is unlimited.

The GPS system provides two services for position determination,standard positioning service (SPS) and precise positioning service(PPS). Accuracy varies with the capability of the user's equipment. Thestandard positioning service (SPS) is the standard specified level ofpositioning and timing accuracy that is available without qualificationor restrictions to any user on a continuous worldwide basis. Theaccuracy of this service is established by the U.S. Department ofDefense based on U.S. security interests, and provides on a daily basisat any position worldwide, horizontal positioning accuracy within 100meters. The precise positioning service (PPS) is the most accuratepositioning, velocity, and timing information continuously availableworldwide from the basic GPS system. This service is limited toauthorized United States and allied federal governments, authorizedforeign and military users, and eligible civil users, and provides apredictable positioning accuracy of 22 meters horizontally and timeinterval accuracy within 90 nanoseconds. In other embodiments,differential methods or enhanced GPS technology may be used to provideincreased positioning accuracy of about 1 meter.

In certain embodiments, at least one signaling unit is adapted to behidden. A sophisticated security apparatus is thus provided, which maycontain both a covert component and an overt component. An overtcomponent in a security system may be easily noticed and eithercircumvented or copied, and the real security lies in a covertcomponent, which is not easily seen, recognized, or circumvented. In oneembodiment, at least one signaling unit is covert or hidden, and atleast one signaling unit may be overt and not hidden. An overt unit isobvious and easily recognized, and a kidnapper or abductor would beexpected to remove the unit and throw it away. In the case of prior artsystems where the only signaling unit was overt, the unit itself couldbe tracked, but an individual separated from the unit would be lost oncethe unit was removed. According to the present invention, a signal maybe generated immediately when the associated signaling units areseparated more than a preselected distance, and all signaling units areable to be tracked. This feature is extremely important, since anindividual could be taken miles away within minutes of being abducted.

In an embodiment where at least one signaling unit is adapted to behidden, it is desirable that the signaling unit be small. A smallsignaling unit allows it to be hidden more easily, and also allows theunit to be incorporated into a plurality of articles. A signaling unitmay be incorporated into a molded article, an extruded article, a sewnarticle, and the like. The incorporation of a signaling unit into anarticle may be effected by any known manual or automated manufacturingmethod. The mode of attachment of a signaling unit may also be anadhesive, and may be a pressure sensitive adhesive.

The signaling units may be incorporated into a wearable article.Examples of a wearable article include, but are not restricted to, atleast one of an article of clothing, a shoe, a watch, a wristband, abracelet, an identification card, an article of jewelry, a hairaccessory, eyeglasses, and an animal collar.

In one embodiment, at least one signaling unit is securely attached toor implanted into an individual. An important feature of the securityand tracking apparatus is its utility for personal security forchildren, individuals with physical disabilities, individuals withmental disabilities, for example, Alzheimer patients, individuals inwilderness areas, and any other individuals who might encounter anemergency situation. The signaling units may store personal informationsuch as identifying characteristics and medical conditions. Externalsignaling units may also store substances such as mace or an ink stainto immobilize or mark an attacker. The signaling units may be configuredfor secondary operations which may include, but are not limited to,receiving or transmitting video signals or audio signals, the monitoringof physiological functions in order to determine the presence ofemergency situations, and the like. The security and tracking apparatuscan also aid in the apprehension of individuals responsible forabduction and kidnapping and, therefore, contribute to overall publicsafety.

In another embodiment, at least one signaling unit is securely attachedto or implanted into an animal. The present invention has utility forthe security and tracking of pets and may also be used with any otheranimal for any other purpose such as scientific study, the assurance ofpublic safety, etc.

In another embodiment, at least one signaling unit is securely attachedto or incorporated within, or embedded into a material asset or personalaccessory. A signal will be generated when a material asset (that is, anobject) containing a signaling unit is separated more than a preselecteddistance from an associated signaling unit, which may be carried by theowner of the asset or kept in the desired location of the asset.Examples of material assets or personal accessories include, but are notlimited to, a credit card, a wallet, a checkbook, a purse, a cellularphone, a pager, a motor vehicle, a boat, an aircraft, a television, aradio, a stereo, a tape player, a compact disc player, a DVD player, anMP3 player, a VCR, a camera, a movie camera, a computer, a printer, alaptop or notebook computer, a PDA or PocketPC™, a briefcase, asuitcase, a backpack, a bank bag, a weapon, an article of clothing, anarticle of jewelry, and an article of artwork. Multiple signaling unitsmay also be placed in various components of a material asset, forexample in a cellular phone and stereo of a motor vehicle as well as inthe motor vehicle itself, so that the individual components may betraced in the case of their separation, such as the stripping of a motorvehicle after theft. The security and tracking apparatus can also aid inthe apprehension of individuals responsible for the theft of thematerial asset and, therefore, contribute to overall public safety. Thesignaling units may be configured for secondary operations that mayinclude, but are not limited to, recording, receiving or transmittingvideo signals or audio signals which may include internet real timestreaming video and voice over IP (VoIP), the disabling of firearms thathave been separated from their owners, and the disabling of motorvehicles that have been separated from their owners. These secondaryoperations may be activated by a user on demand or automaticallyactivated when the signaling units are separated by more than apreselected distance.

In certain embodiments, the signaling units are transferable todifferent individuals, animals, or material assets with appropriateupdating of identifying information throughout the security and trackingsystem.

The signaling units may be in a passive mode when the signaling unitsare in close or communicating proximity. An active mode in the absenceof an emergency situation could unnecessarily drain available power insignaling units containing batteries, so a passive mode may be used innon-emergency situations.

The information identifying the geographical location of the signalingunits may be transmitted continuously. In an emergency situation, acontinuous signal transmitting information identifying location isexpected to be most accurate. The availability of a continuous signalmay be limited by available power. The information identifying thelocation of the signaling units may also be pulsed and transmittedintermittently. An intermittent signal at appropriately short intervalscan be used to conserve power.

In one embodiment, the information identifying the location of thesignaling units is provided in an encrypted form. For the ultimate insecurity, it may be important in certain situations to send informationin encrypted form to prevent the information from being used byindividuals such as thieves, kidnappers, etc. to compromise the safetyof individuals, animals, or material assets that the security system isdesigned to protect.

In certain embodiments, a security and tracking system is providedcomprising a first signaling unit 10 having means for identifying thelocation of said signaling unit, a second signaling unit 20 incommunicating proximity with the first signaling unit, said secondsignaling unit having means for identifying the location of said secondsignaling unit, and a monitoring station 30 capable of receivinginformation identifying the location of said signaling units. Thelocation of the signaling units will be transmitted to the monitoringstation automatically when the signaling units are separated more than apreselected distance. In an additional embodiment, the monitoringstation includes a means for transmitting information identifying thelocation of the signaling units from the monitoring station to a remotereceiver 40. The location of the remote receiver may be the home or workaddress of a parent or guardian of an individual, the home or workaddress of the owner of a pet, the home or work address of the owner ofa material asset, a missing child organization or other serviceorganization, a nationwide alert system, a newspaper publisher, a radiostation, a television station, a law enforcement agency facility, a lawenforcement vehicle, an emergency response vehicle, an emergency carefacility, etc. The remote receiver may be a portable device such as aportable computer, laptop, personal data assistant (PDA), PocketPC, cellphone, pager, and the like. In certain embodiments, the location of theremote receiver is one of a service organization, a law enforcementagency facility, a law enforcement vehicle, an emergency responsevehicle, and an emergency care facility.

The means for identifying the location of the signaling units mayinvolve the use of satellite systems such as the GPS system or low earthorbit satellites, radiolocation, cellular networks, wireless networks,local sensors, local networks, mesh networks, or any other method knownto those skilled in the art. The method by which the monitoring stationreceives information identifying the geographic location of thesignaling units may involve the use of satellite systems, radio signals,television signals, telephone communications, cellular communications,internet communications, mesh networks, wireless systems which mayinclude systems incorporating Wi-Fi nodes and wireless access points,broadband networks, local networks, low power networks, low bandwidthnetworks, or any other communication network or means known to thoseskilled in the art. Examples of appropriate wireless communications mayinclude, but are not limited to, Wi-Fi, WiMax, wireless broadband,wireless USB (WUSB), and ultrawideband (UWB). Appropriate protocols mayinclude 802.11a, 802.11b, 802.11e, 802.11g, 802.11i, 802.16, 802.16e,802.20, Bluetooth™, WAP, GSM, or any other protocol known to thoseskilled in the art. It is preferred to have systems in place to transmitinformation by more than one method to provide speed, accuracy, back-up,and reliability for the security system.

The means for transmitting information identifying the location of thesignaling units from the monitoring station to a remote receiver mayinvolve the use of satellite systems, radio signals, television signals,telephone communications, cellular communications, internetcommunications, mesh networks, wireless systems which may includesystems incorporating Wi-Fi nodes and wireless access points, broadbandnetworks, local networks, low power networks, low bandwidth networks, orany other communication network or means known to those skilled in theart. Examples of appropriate wireless communications may include, butare not limited to, Wi-Fi, WiMax, wireless broadband, wireless USB(WUSB), and ultrawideband (UWB). Appropriate protocols may include802.11a, 802.11b, 802.11e, 802.11g, 802.11i, 802.16, 802.16e, 802.20,Bluetooth™, WAP, GSM, or any other protocol known to those skilled inthe art. Wired systems may include land based phone lines, Firewire,IEEE 1394a, IEEE 1394b, USB 1.0, USB 1.1, USB 2.0, and the like. It ispreferred to have systems in place to transmit information by more thanone method to provide speed, accuracy, back-up, and reliability for thesecurity system.

In another embodiment, a method is provided to locate a person, animal,or object, comprising providing in contact with or at least in closeproximity to the person, animal, or object, at least two signaling unitsin communicating proximity, each said signaling unit having means foridentifying the location of said signaling unit, and activating saidmeans to identify the location. By “close proximity” is meant that theunits may be attached, incorporated, worn or carried.

In one embodiment, the method includes automatically activating thetransmission of the location of the signaling units when the signalingunits are separated more than a preselected distance. To provide thegreatest possible degree of security, it is desirable for the locationof the signaling units to be transmitted immediately and automaticallyin the case of an emergency situation. Examples of such situationsinclude the removal of one of the associated signaling units from anindividual in a kidnapping or abduction situation, theft of a materialasset containing a signaling unit, and the like.

In another embodiment, the method includes initiating the transmissionof information identifying the location of the signaling units uponreceiving instructions from a remote source. The transmission ofinformation identifying the location of the signaling units may beactivated by one of the signaling units or by a signal from a monitoringstation. In an additional embodiment, at least one signaling unit issmall and is hidden in a wearable article. One method for obtaining thelocation of the signaling units utilizes the global positioningsatellite (GPS) system.

In certain embodiments, the signaling units are operated in a passivemode when they are in close or communicating proximity. An active modein the absence of an emergency situation could unnecessarily drainavailable power in signaling units containing batteries, so a passivemode may be used in non-emergency situations. The informationidentifying the location of the signaling units may be transmittedcontinuously. In an emergency situation, a continuous signaltransmitting information identifying location is expected to be mostaccurate. The availability of a continuous signal may be limited byavailable power. The information identifying the location of thesignaling units may also be transmitted intermittently. An intermittentsignal at appropriately short intervals can be used to conserve power.The information identifying the location of the signaling units may alsobe provided in an encrypted form. For the ultimate in security, it maybe important in certain situations to send information in encrypted formto prevent the information from being used by individuals such asthieves, kidnappers, etc. to compromise the safety of individuals,animals, or material assets that the security system is designed toprotect.

In another embodiment, a method is provided to locate a person, animal,or object, comprising providing in contact with or at least in closeproximity to the person, animal, or object, at least two signaling unitsin communicating proximity, each said signaling unit having means foridentifying the location of said signaling unit, and activating saidmeans to identify the location of the signaling units to a monitoringstation. The location of the signaling units may be provided within anunlimited range.

In certain embodiments, a method is provided for the transmission of thelocation of the signaling units from a monitoring station to a remotereceiver. The location of the remote receiver may be the home or workaddress of a parent or guardian of an individual, the home or workaddress of the owner of a pet, the home or work address of the owner ofa material asset, a missing child organization or other serviceorganization, a nationwide alert system, a newspaper publisher, a radiostation, a television station, a law enforcement agency facility, a lawenforcement vehicle, an emergency response vehicle, an emergency carefacility, etc. The remote receiver may be a portable device such as aportable computer, laptop, personal data assistant (PDA), PocketPC, cellphone, pager, and the like. In one embodiment, information istransmitted to a remote receiver in the form of text messaging. Incertain embodiments, the location of the remote receiver is one of aservice organization, a law enforcement agency facility, a lawenforcement vehicle, an emergency response vehicle, and an emergencycare facility.

Additional information may also be transmitted to the remote receiver.For a security and tracking system for an individual, the additionalinformation transmitted to the remote receiver could include, but is notlimited to, the physical description of the individual, a picture of theindividual, fingerprints, medical information, etc. For a security andtracking system for an animal, the additional information transmitted tothe remote receiver could include, but is not limited to, the physicaldescription of the animal, a picture of the animal, etc. For a securityand tracking system for a material asset, the additional informationtransmitted to the remote receiver could include, but is not limited to,the physical description of the material asset, a picture of thematerial asset, a registration number, a serial number, etc. In the caseof a motor vehicle, the description may include a picture of the vehicleand the make, model, year, color, and license plate number of thevehicle, etc.

The method for transmitting information identifying the geographicallocation of the signaling units from the monitoring station to a remotereceiver may be accomplished using any known means of communication,which includes, but is not limited to, local sensors, a local network, amesh network, radio waves, a computer network such as the internet, atelephone network, a cellular network, television transmissions,wireless networks, and the like. Examples of appropriate wirelesscommunications may include, but are not limited to, Wi-Fi, WiMax,wireless broadband, wireless USB (WUSB), and ultrawideband (UWB).Appropriate protocols may include 802.11a, 802.11b, 802.11e, 802.11g,802.11i, 802.16, 802.16e, 802.20, Bluetooth™, WAP, GSM, or any otherprotocol known to those skilled in the art. In one embodiment, theinformation identifying the geographical location of the signaling unitsis transmitted from the monitoring station to a remote receiver usinglow earth orbit satellites or the global positioning satellite (GPS)system. In a preferred embodiment, multiple forms of communication areused to provide redundancy and back-up in the case of failure of one ormore communication systems.

The monitoring station may have a continuous ability to transmitinformation to the remote system at any time. The monitoring station maybe computer controlled with recording capability and automatic anddirect communication links to identified remote receiver devices whichmay be in the possession of individuals such as a parent or guardian inthe case of a security system for an individual, an owner in the case ofa security system for an animal or material asset, or at the location ofa service organization, for example, a missing child organization, andemergency and law enforcement agencies in the geographic vicinity of thesignaling units. The monitoring station may optionally employ humanoperators, and may, as described above, transmit additional informationto the remote receiver.

In one embodiment, the geographical location of the signaling units isidentified with an accuracy of about 100 meters. In another embodiment,the geographical location of the signaling units is identified with anaccuracy of about 22 meters, and in certain embodiments, such as usingdifferential technologies or enhanced GPS technology, an accuracy ofabout a few meters or about 1 meter.

In certain embodiments, the signaling units are not limited ingeographic range from the monitoring station. Any restriction ingeographic range, as in prior art security systems, could limit theeffectiveness of the security apparatus. Through the utilization of theGPS system and other systems, the security and tracking apparatus isable to perform in certain embodiments without geographic rangerestrictions.

The following examples illustrate security and tracking systems andapparatus in accordance with the present invention.

Example 1

A security and tracking apparatus is assembled with two small signalingunits incorporated into (1) a medical bracelet and (2) a wallet for anAlzheimer's patient. The signaling units each contain a battery powersupply, a GPS antenna, a GPS receiver processor, a radio antenna, aradio receiver, and a radio transmitter. Upon a telephone request fromthe caregiver of the patient, a monitoring station sends a radio signalto the signaling units instructing the units to identify theirgeographical location. The signaling units receive the radioinstructions from the monitoring station, and determine their geographiclocations from the global positioning satellite (GPS) system. Radiosignals are then sent from the signaling units to the monitoring stationidentifying their geographic locations. The locations of the units aretransmitted from the monitoring station to the caregiver via telephonecommunication.

Example 2

A security and tracking apparatus is assembled with two small signalingunits incorporated into (1) a medical bracelet and (2) a wallet for anAlzheimer's patient. The signaling units each contain a battery powersupply, a GPS antenna, a GPS receiver processor, a radio antenna, aradio receiver, a radio transmitter, a cellular telephone antenna, acellular telephone receiver, and a cellular telephone transmitter. Thefirst signaling unit sends a periodic radio signal to the secondsignaling unit. Upon loss of the wallet, the two signaling units areseparated more than a predetermined distance, and the periodic radiosignal from the first signaling unit is no longer received by the secondsignaling unit. The loss of the periodic signal causes each signalingunit to determine its geographic location from the global positioningsatellite (GPS) system. A cellular telephone signal is automaticallysent from each signaling unit to the monitoring station identifying itsgeographic location. The location of each unit is transmitted bytelephone communication from the monitoring station to the caregiver ofthe patient and to a law enforcement agency in the geographic vicinityof the two signaling units (the lost wallet and the patient wearing themedical bracelet).

Example 3

A security and tracking system is assembled, comprising two smallassociated signaling units incorporated into a visible wristwatch and ahidden ankle bracelet on a child, and a monitoring station capable ofsending transmissions to and receiving transmissions from the signalingunits. The signaling units each contain a battery power supply, a GPSantenna, a GPS receiver processor, and an antenna, receiver, andtransmitter capable of communication with low earth orbiting satellites.Upon a telephone request from the parent or guardian of the lost child,the monitoring station sends a signal to the signaling units via lowearth orbiting satellites instructing the units to identify theirgeographical location. The signaling units receive the instructions fromthe monitoring station, determine their geographic locations from theglobal positioning satellite (GPS) system, and transmit this informationto the monitoring station via low earth orbiting satellites. Thelocations of the units are transmitted via cellular communication fromthe monitoring station to the parent or guardian and to a lawenforcement agency in the geographic vicinity of the signaling units,and a video picture and description of the child is also transmitted tothe law enforcement agency.

Example 4

A security and tracking system is assembled, comprising two smallassociated signaling units incorporated into a visible wristwatch and ahidden ankle bracelet on a child, and a monitoring station capable ofsending transmissions to and receiving transmissions from the signalingunits. The signaling units each contain a battery power supply, a GPSantenna, a GPS receiver processor, a radio antenna, a radio receiver, aradio transmitter, a cellular telephone antenna, a cellular telephonereceiver, and a cellular telephone transmitter. The first signaling unitsends a periodic radio signal to the second signaling unit. Uponabduction of the child, the abductor removes the wristwatch, the twosignaling units are separated more than a predetermined distance, andthe periodic radio signal from the first signaling unit is no longerreceived by the second signaling unit. The loss of the periodic signalcauses each signaling unit to automatically determine its geographiclocation from the global positioning satellite (GPS) system. A cellulartelephone signal is automatically sent from each signaling unit to themonitoring station identifying its geographic location. The location ofeach unit is transmitted by telephone communication from the monitoringstation to the parent or guardian of the child and to a law enforcementagency in the geographic vicinity of the two signaling units (theremoved wristwatch and the child wearing the hidden ankle bracelet), anda video picture and description of the child is also transmitted to thelaw enforcement agency.

Further Embodiments

The invention provides a system that provides location information for aperson, an animal, or a material asset (that is, an object) whenrequested and/or upon the occurrence of an event or situation. Thesystem may make use of a plurality of independent and redundantsubsystems. Each subsystem signaling unit may have the ability tocontinue transmission of the location of the person, the animal or theobject in the event of another subsystem signaling unit's malfunction orabsence from the person, the animal or the object. In certainembodiments, one subsystem may be “active” at all times; “active”meaning only that the device is at that time responsible for thetransmission of location data. The currently “active” subsystem may useGPS to determine its location, and cellular technology to communicateits location to a monitoring station. In one embodiment, the monitoringstation receives the location of the person, the animal or the object,and communicates that information to a remote receiver, accessible toone such as a parent, guardian, animal or asset owner, or appropriatemedical or safety authorities. These individuals may alternatively bethe monitoring station user or operator.

In certain embodiments, the system includes a signaling unit containinga GPS chip, circuitry, and other hardware and/or software that, whenrequested by a monitoring station calculates and transmits its locationvia established protocols. The monitoring station, which may be acomputer, can communicate the signaling unit's location to users of themonitoring station, or to a remote receiver such as another computer viathe Internet, or to another person or device telephonically orwirelessly (including but not limited to via cellular, radio frequency,television, or satellite communication). The monitoring station and/orthe remote receiver computer may be a desktop or tower unit, a laptop ornotebook unit, or a handheld device. Handheld devices include, but arenot limited to personal data assistant (PDA) and PocketPC™ devices.

In one embodiment, by way of example but not limitation, the systemapparatus comprises one signaling unit that is of a size similar to awristwatch that may make use of cellular technology along with GPS. Awatch, such as a wristwatch, for example, may be the main “active”subsystem 101. The signaling unit may contain a watch face with aplurality of buttons for controlling watch functions. The watchfunctions may include keeping time, setting time, and setting alarms. AGPS receiver 111 or integrated GPS receiver micro-controller may beembedded in the watch 101. The receiver may be packaged in a ball gridarray. The receiver may update from a GPS signal 120, transmitted by aGPS satellite 102, periodically such as every second, and may have aposition accuracy of about 100 meters, in certain embodiments about 22meters on average, and in other embodiments, about a few meters.

The subsystem signaling unit 101 may be capable of receiving a requestfor location on demand, such as a signal 121 communicated within thecellular band of frequencies using a cellular transceiver 112, as wellas transmitting the signaling unit's location in the event of anemergency. The cellular transceiver 112 may use modulation techniquessuch as PCS, GSM, or others in the cellular band or other frequencies totransmit the individual's location data, via a cellular tower 103 andoptionally the land based phone line network 104, to the monitoringstation 105 or monitoring stations. The active function of the subsystemsignaling unit 101 can be replaced by another (back-up) subsystemsignaling unit or device 106 in the event that it becomes “inactive”,determined by a loss in cellular connection 121 or inter-devicecommunication 122. Inter-device communication may be accomplished incertain embodiments between RF transceivers 118 in each signaling unit.

The main subsystem signaling unit 101 may be powered by a rechargeablepower source 113 that may be recharged through a docking unit. Thedocking unit optionally may provide a diagnostic station for the device.Alternatively, a replaceable power supply may be used. The power sourcemay provide at least one day's power requirements, and in otherembodiments may provide at least one week's power requirements withoutmaintenance. The power source may be at least one rechargeable orreplaceable battery, solar cell, kinetic power device, piezoelectricdevice, fuel cell, microelectromechanical system (MEMS), micro engine,turbine chip, or any combination thereof. Power may also be provided byconversion of a magnetic field into electricity. In certain embodiments,power and data may be transmitted through the same interface. The typeof battery may be alkaline, nickel-cadmium, nickel metal hydride,lithium ion, lithium ion polymer, organic radical lithium ion, zinc, orany other type of battery known to those skilled in the art. In oneembodiment, a signaling unit is incorporated in a shoe and powered by akinetic power device.

In certain embodiments, the passive subsystem signaling unit(s), orbackup signaling unit(s) 106, may be powered up only periodically toverify that the system is still intact (that is, in close proximity)with at least one subsystem signaling unit being “active”. The backupsignaling unit 106 also may use a GPS receiver 111 to determine itslocation. A backup signaling unit 106 may have the appearance of a smallpager, or another conventional personal accessory, as discussed above.The subsystem signaling units may be water-resistant andweather-resistant. A coating or membrane may provide protection for asignaling unit, and in some embodiments may have metallic character andmay comprise an antenna.

In one embodiment, the locus of control is the monitoring station. Inthis case, the subsystem signaling units may not initiate anycommunication with the monitoring station unless an emergency occurs,such as a loss of the signal from a companion subsystem signaling unitor determination of separation between the signaling units of more thanthe preselected distance. Each of the subsystem signaling units may havean emergency contact ability; so in that event, the signaling units cancommunicate with the monitoring station, relaying information such asidentity, time, location, and status.

The monitoring station 105 may have the ability to communicate with anysubsystem signaling unit. The monitoring station may be able both torequest and to receive the signaling unit's location on demand. Themonitoring station 105 may comprise a computer 115 in communication witha modem 114, and may be able to communicate and/or display incominglocation data in a format proper for use by a remote receiver 107, amonitoring station user, an authorized user and/or proper authorities.

In certain embodiments, the monitoring station is able to log alltransactions, i.e., communications, with any subsystem signaling unit.The monitoring station may have a database, which stores all pertinentinformation. In one embodiment, the database may be a SQL serverdatabase. In certain embodiments, the monitoring station has a dataformat for emergency calls that includes pertinent informationconcerning the individual. In certain embodiments, the monitoringstation has a means of communication with the proper authorities,directly or via a remote receiver. Such means of communication mayinvolve wireless or cellular communication, land based phone lines,Internet, and any combinations thereof 123. In one embodiment, anauthorized user, such as a parent, may access a secure Internet web sitesuch as with an ID and password, and determine the location of thesubsystem signaling unit-wearing child.

It can be appreciated that there may be more than one appropriate mediaand/or protocol for each communications link in the system, (radio,cellular, wireless, Bluetooth™, and the like). In certain embodiments,communications between the subsystem signaling unit(s) and themonitoring station, as well as between the subsystem signaling units,may be encrypted, such as “not plain text”, according to techniquesknown in the art.

It can be further appreciated that a single monitoring station cancommunicate with multiple sets of subsystem signaling units, that is,signaling units associated with more than one individual, animal, orasset. Additional monitoring stations may also be employed, withcoordinated communication via mesh networks, local networks, wirelessnetworks, cellular networks, the internet, or any other communicationmeans known to those skilled in the art.

According to an alternative embodiment, each associated subsystemsignaling unit may periodically report to the monitoring station. Whenthe monitoring station calculates that the associated signaling unitsare separated by a more than a preselected distance, the monitoringstation may initiate more frequent (in one embodiment, continuous)transmission of location from the signaling units and/or may notify theproper person or authorities.

In certain embodiments, the locus of control is in the subsystemsignaling units. As discussed above, two signaling units may be incontinual or periodic communication with each other. When separated bymore than a preselected distance, both signaling units transmit theirlocations to the monitoring station. Alternatively, one signaling unitis active to receive and transmit information both with the secondsignaling unit and with the monitoring station. The second signalingunit is passive and is powered only to verify it is within a preselecteddistance of the active signaling unit. When the active signaling unitcalculates or determines that the passive signaling unit is no longerwithin the preselected distance, a signal is transmitted to activate thepassive signaling unit, and both signaling units transmit theirlocations to the monitoring station. This allows the passive signalingunit to operate with less power and allows it to be smaller. In oneembodiment, a signaling unit may also comprise a monitoring station. Ina further embodiment, a signaling unit can transmit its location andoptionally a message on demand, for example, an emergency call for help.A signaling unit may transmit directly to a remote receiver, which maybe important in an emergency situation.

In another embodiment, a method of using the security and trackingsystem comprises monitoring of a physiological function and transmittinga signal due to an emergency condition such as a complete lack ofmovement, loss of blood pressure, loss of pulse, a spike in bloodpressure, or other monitorable physical conditions associated with anindividual's health condition (i.e., diabetes, epilepsy and the like).This option is useful for high-risk infants, high-risk individuals, andindividuals in danger.

Example 5

An asset and personnel location tracking system utilizes GPS technology,cellular technology, and a low power RF transceiver. The asset or personwears multiple redundant signaling units that each transmits itslocation in the case of an emergency. Each of the worn signaling unitssupports inter-device communication, is able to use GPS to find itslocation, and is able to transmit its location via a cellular link. Allsignaling units worn by an asset or person communicate with each otherusing low power RF transceivers. This detects the removal of a signalingunit or device malfunction. A server records all the informationtransmitted by each signaling unit. Such information includes longitude,latitude, date/time stamp, and asset or personal identification (such asan id number). The server uses the asset/personal id number to matchidentity, historical and/or medical information with each asset orperson. The server allows authorized access to a database for displayingthe current location, log of last known locations, and other informationregarding the asset or person. For example, the database may be poweredby a MySQL database. The server-side scripting may be done by PHP. Aweb-based user interface may use valid Xhtml as defined by the InternetStandards (w3.org).

For purposes of illustration, but not limitation, the database mayinclude two tables, one for client information, and one for updates fromthe signaling units. The two tables are linked through the client ID, aunique number assigned to each client. Examples of the table fields arelisted below.

Client Information Table Client ID. Child's first name. Child's lastname. Child's picture. First name of the child's guardian. Last name ofthe child's guardian. Home phone number of the guardian. Child's SocialSecurity Number. Special medical considerations. Phone Number to use incase of emergency. Status of the client's account. Location from themost recent update. Number of minutes to wait between signaling unitupdates. Option to adjust the update interval of signaling unit device.Any additional information that might be desired.

Update Table Unique update ID given to every update. Client ID signifieswhich client the update ID is for. Percentage of power left in thesignaling unit device. Longitude of the device. Latitude of the device.Altitude of the device. Status of the device. Time the update occurred.

One personal signaling unit includes a micro-controller that willinterface a cellular phone, a GPS receiver, and a low power RFtransceiver. The micro-controller may, for example, be a PIC 18 seriesprocessor, supporting at least two UART devices and having a hardwaretimer to create a serial connection. Another microprocessor for the GPSenabled signaling unit is the Rajone Pty, Ltd. Genius IV chip. Thecellular phone may be interfaced to the micro-controller through anRS-232 connection, and has an available SDK and supports two-way SMS.The GPS receiver may also be interfaced to the micro-controller by anRS-232 connection. Current commercial cellular phones having built-inGPS receivers, however, do not have a fully functioning SDK, two-waySMS, or sufficiently accurate GPS.

To perform the inter-device communication, a low power RF transceiverconnects to the micro-controller via a serial connection althoughoptions include Bluetooth™ and IEEE personal area network technology.The low power RF solutions use less power and are easy to interface.

Alternatively, the personal signaling unit may utilize a cellularembedded module. This provides substantially the same functionality as acell phone, but includes the basic hardware similar to a cellularchipset (without an LCD, keypad, speaker, or microphone). According toanother embodiment, both cellular and GPS requirements are integrated ona single chip. In other embodiments, multiple functions may beincorporated on a single chip. These functions may include, but are notlimited to, GPS, cellular, and wireless functions.

There are three main components that comprise a cellular device: areceiver, a transmitter, and a modem. The receiver chipset isresponsible for converting the radio frequency from the antenna to thefrequency used by the modem. The transmitter chipset converts thefrequency from the modem to a radio frequency that is to be sent overthe air by the antenna. The modem (or mobile station modem) is used toinitiate data connections, receive data connections, controls thereceiver/transmitter chips, and various other functions.

Examples of cellular chipsets include Qualcomm™ IFR3000 and IFT3000receiver transmitter chips that work in tandem with Qualcomm™ MSMchipsets for use in the CDMA cell network (PCS). The Motorola™ i250platform is used for GSM cell phone communication.

Examples of GPS chips or modules include Valence Semiconductor's VS7001chip, SiRF Technology's SiRFstarIIe/LP low power GPS chipset, and NAVMANNZ Ltd.'s Jupiter GPS module. Examples of combination modulesincorporating cellular and GPS capabilities include the Motorola g18 GSMdata module.

In another embodiment, an individual wearing a subsystem signaling unitis notified when an associated second subsystem signaling unit isseparated by more than a pre-selected distance. For example, a signalingunit in a wristwatch can generate a signal to the individual wearing thesignaling unit if an associated subsystem signaling unit, for example ina cell phone or a PDA, is left behind, to prevent the individual fromlosing it.

While the present invention has been explained in relation to certainembodiments, it is to be understood that various modifications thereofwill become apparent to those skilled in the art upon reading thespecification. It should be understood that the embodiments describedabove may be practiced in the alternative, or in combination, asappropriate. Therefore, it is to be understood that the presentinvention is not limited to the specific embodiments described above,but includes variations, modifications defined by the following claimsand equivalent embodiments. All such modifications and variations areintended to be included within the scope of the invention as defined inthe appended claims.

1. A security and tracking apparatus comprising at least a firstsignaling unit and a second signaling unit, each adapted to be incontact with or in close proximity to an individual person, animal orobject, wherein each of the at least first signaling unit and the secondsignaling unit are adapted to operate in a non-alarm mode within aproximity of a preselected distance to each other respective signalingunit and the apparatus is adapted for identifying the location of eachrespective signaling unit and for transmitting the location of eachrespective signaling unit when the first and second signaling units areseparated by more than the preselected distance.
 2. The security andtracking apparatus of claim 1, wherein the transmitting of the locationof the respective signaling units is automatically activated when thefirst and second signaling units are separated by more than thepreselected distance.
 3. The security and tracking apparatus of claim 1,wherein the apparatus is adapted for receiving an initiating signal foractivating the transmission of information identifying the location ofthe signaling units.
 4. The security and tracking apparatus of claim 1,wherein the apparatus is adapted for communicating with a wirelessnetwork.
 5. The security and tracking apparatus of claim 1, wherein atleast one of the signaling units is adapted to be hidden.
 6. Thesecurity and tracking apparatus of claim 1, wherein the apparatus isadapted for communicating with at least one of the global positioningsatellite (GPS) system or low earth orbit satellites.
 7. The securityand tracking apparatus of claim 1, wherein the apparatus is adapted forcommunicating with at least one of a cellular network, a satellitenetwork, a mesh network, a local network, local sensors, or a wirelessnetwork.
 8. The security and tracking apparatus of claim 1, wherein atleast one of the signaling units is in a passive mode when saidsignaling units are in communicating proximity.
 9. The security andtracking apparatus of claim 1, wherein at least one said signaling unitis small enough to be able to be hidden in a wearable article.
 10. Thesecurity and tracking apparatus of claim 9, wherein at least one saidsignaling unit is incorporated into at least one of an article ofclothing, a shoe, a watch, a wristband, a bracelet, an identificationcard, an article of jewelry, a hair accessory, eyeglasses, and an animalcollar.
 11. The security and tracking apparatus of claim 1, wherein atleast one said signaling unit is incorporated into at least one of amolded article, an extruded article, and a sewn article.
 12. Thesecurity and tracking apparatus of claim 1, wherein at least onesignaling unit is incorporated into at least one of a credit card, awallet, a checkbook, a purse, a cellular phone, a pager, a motorvehicle, a boat, an aircraft, a television, a radio, a stereo, a tapeplayer, a compact disc player, a DVD player, an MP3 player, a VCR, acamera, a movie camera, a computer, a printer, a laptop or notebookcomputer, a PDA or PocketPC, a briefcase, a suitcase, a backpack, a bankbag, a weapon, an article of clothing, an article of jewelry, and anarticle of artwork.
 13. The security and tracking apparatus of claim 1,wherein at least one said signaling unit has a coating comprising ametallic character that comprises an antenna.
 14. The security andtracking apparatus of claim 1, wherein at least one said signaling unitis capable of at least one secondary operation, optionally including atleast one of recording, receiving, or transmitting video signals oraudio signals, disabling a firearm, or disabling a motor vehicle. 15.The security and tracking apparatus of claim 14, wherein said at leastone secondary operation is automatically activated when the first andsecond signaling units are separated by more than a preselecteddistance.
 16. A security and tracking system comprising at least a firstsignaling unit and a second signaling unit, each adapted to be incontact with or in close proximity to an individual person, animal orobject, wherein each of the at least first signaling unit and the secondsignaling unit are adapted to operate in a non-alarm mode within aproximity of a preselected distance to each other respective signalingunit and each respective signaling unit is adapted for identifying thelocation of said respective signaling unit and for transmitting thelocation of said respective signaling unit when the first and secondsignaling units are separated by more than the preselected distance; anda monitoring station capable of receiving information identifying thelocation of said signaling units.
 17. The security and tracking systemof claim 16 wherein the monitoring station comprises a computer.
 18. Thesecurity and tracking system of claim 16, wherein said monitoringstation is adapted for transmitting information identifying the locationof the signaling units from the monitoring station to a remote receiver.19. The security and tracking system of claim 18, wherein the monitoringstation is adapted for communication selected from the group consistingof at least one of radio, the internet, a telephone network, a cellularnetwork, a wireless network, a mesh network, a local network, localsensors, television, and satellite.
 20. The security and tracking systemof claim 18, wherein the location of the remote receiver is one of a lawenforcement agency facility, a law enforcement vehicle, an emergencyresponse vehicle, and an emergency care facility.
 21. The security andtracking system of claim 16 wherein the monitoring station comprises atleast one of a cellular phone, a pager, a PDA or PocketPC, a computer,or a combination thereof.
 22. The security and tracking system of claim16, wherein the respective said signaling units are adapted forcommunicating with the global positioning satellite (GPS) system. 23.The security and tracking system of claim 16, wherein the respectivesaid signaling units are adapted for communicating with at least one ofa cellular network, a satellite network, a mesh network, a localnetwork, local sensors, or a wireless network.
 24. A security andtracking apparatus for a person, an animal or an object comprising atleast a first signaling unit and a second signaling unit, each adaptedto be hidden in contact with or in close proximity to the person, theanimal or the object, wherein each respective said signaling unit isadapted for identifying the location of said respective signaling unitand for transmitting the location of said respective signaling unit whenthe first and second signaling units are separated by more than apreselected distance.
 25. The security and tracking apparatus of claim24 wherein each respective said signaling unit is adapted to transmitthe location of said respective signaling unit to a monitoring stationunder at least one of the following conditions: a) automatically whenthe first and second signaling units are separated by more than apreselected distance, b) upon demand from the monitoring station, c)upon demand from the person, d) upon loss or absence of communicationfrom the other signaling unit, or e) upon preselected intervals; whereinthe monitoring station optionally comprises a cellular phone, a pager, aPDA or PocketPC, a computer, or a combination thereof.
 26. The securityand tracking apparatus of claim 24, wherein each respective saidsignaling unit has a low power RF transceiver for communication with theother signaling unit.
 27. The security and tracking apparatus of claim24, wherein at least one said signaling unit is incorporated into atleast one of an article of clothing, a shoe, a watch, a wristband, abracelet, an identification card, an article of jewelry, a hairaccessory, eyeglasses, and an animal collar.
 28. The security andtracking apparatus of claim 24, wherein at least one signaling unit isincorporated into at least one of a credit card, a wallet, a checkbook,a purse, a cellular phone, a pager, a motor vehicle, a boat, anaircraft, a television, a radio, a stereo, a tape player, a compact discplayer, a DVD player, an MP3 player, a VCR, a camera, a movie camera, acomputer, a printer, a laptop or notebook computer, a PDA or PocketPC, abriefcase, a suitcase, a backpack, a bank bag, a weapon, an article ofclothing, an article of jewelry, or an article of artwork.
 29. Thesecurity and tracking apparatus of claim 24, wherein at least onesignaling unit is incorporated into a watch.
 30. The security andtracking apparatus of claim 24, wherein at least one signaling unit isincorporated into a cellular phone.
 31. The security and trackingapparatus of claim 24, wherein at least one signaling unit isincorporated into a pager.
 32. The security and tracking apparatus ofclaim 24, wherein at least one signaling unit additionally comprises amonitoring station adapted to generate a signal to notify the person ofthe other signaling unit being separated by more than a preselecteddistance.
 33. The security and tracking apparatus of claim 24, whereinat least one signaling unit additionally is adapted to monitor andreport at least one physical condition of the person.
 34. The securityand tracking apparatus of claim 24, wherein said signaling units arepowered by a power source selected from the group consisting ofrechargeable battery, replaceable battery, piezoelectric device, fuelcell, microelectromechanical system (MEMS), micro engine, turbine chip,solar cell, kinetic power device, or combinations thereof.
 35. Thesecurity and tracking apparatus of claim 34, wherein power and data arctransmitted through a common interface.
 36. The security and trackingapparatus of claim 24, wherein the location of at least one saidsignaling unit is transmitted directly to a remote receiver.